6 Top Tips for Using Oriental Decoration
Oriental decoration has become a popular way to give western homes a fresh new look. While it has been present in western countries for many decades now, its ability to help create peaceful, minimalist environments has seen it grow in popularity over the last few years.
In fact, it’s one of the most sought after looks among those who want to create a sense of balance in their homes. Although it’s not exactly like the practice of Feng Shui, it does involve using elements with a very special spiritual meaning.
Don’t know how to go about creating oriental decor in your home? In this post, we want to give you some simple advice so that you too can enjoy this exotic style.
Tips for creating oriental decoration
There is one simple rule for creating oriental decoration: less is more. This style is characterized by the desire to create a peaceful environment, with very little in the way of clutter, and using colors that produce feelings of tranquillity. Plus, it promotes the use of furniture and decorations which will give your home a feeling of harmony.
However, it’s not about buying solely Japanese or Chinese elements. It’s important to keep in mind that you can also include details from other Asian countries, like India or Turkey. Want to give it a try? Then take a look at the following advice.
1. Create simple environments
One of the main characteristics of oriental decoration is its simple style and lack of clutter. This is because its main aim is to create harmonious and peaceful spaces. What’s more, it allows you to achieve greater contrast between the cool-colored elements and more eye-catching colors like red or black.
2. Choose natural materials
Natural materials feature strongly in almost all oriental cultures. Although in recent years the amount of industrial and synthetic decorative elements used has risen, they traditionally favor materials such as wood, bamboo, silk and rice paper, among others.
These materials have a spiritual meaning, that is related to the desire to create a closer connection with nature. This style opens up new decorative possibilities, allowing you to create contrast in your bedrooms or living room.
3. Choose low furniture
The use of low furniture is perfect if you want to create oriental-style decor in your home. This characteristic, in particular, is traditional of the Asian continent. They often use futons and low beds in bedrooms, like those you see in Japan.
You could also include low or floor level sofas or seats, which you can then contrast with wardrobes and tall nightstands. In turn, you can then contrast these with tatami mats or rugs.
4. Use Japanese panels
Japanese panels are similar to the blinds that are so popular nowadays. They are ideal for houses whose rooms have large windows and spaces with lots of light. Depending on the size you pick, these can even cover a whole wall from top to bottom.
They are easy to install and available in a range of colors, patterns, and designs. As the idea is to create oriental-style decoration, we recommend choosing white or beige tones, or the classic natural tone of bamboo.
5. Decorate your floor with rugs
Minimalism and simplicity define oriental decoration. However, you’ll also find that rugs are often used in creating this style. In the same way as the walls and windows, decorating the floors will help to create a sense of harmony throughout your home.
So, a Persian, Turkish or Pakistani rug is always a great option. However, it’s important to remember that the design should work well with the furniture and the other colors in your home. You shouldn’t cover it with too many extra elements, as it could detract from the overall impact.
6. Oriental decoration: decorative elements
Finally, we want to highlight some other decorative elements that are often used in oriental decoration. Among the most common are:
- Asian paintings with letters or Chinese figures
- Cushions
- Small statues or porcelain figurines
- Candle or incense holders
- Bonsai or indoor plants
- Chinese-style lamps
Ready to try out oriental decor in your home? If you’re a fan of minimalism, this is the style for you.